Cafe Central
| Address: | 455 Central Ave, Highland Park, IL 60035, USA |
| Phone: | +1 847-266-7878 |
| Site: | cafecentral.net |
| Rating: | 4.3 |
| Working: | Closed 11:30AM–2:30PM 11:30AM–2:30PM 11:30AM–2:30PM 11:30AM–2:30PM 11:30AM–2:30PM 5–8:15PM |
Location
Photos 12
Reviews 27
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A Private User
My family and I have been coming to Cafe Central for years. French food is my favorite choice of cuisine, and the Nietos do a great job of it. Their restaurants are all excellent. Their French Onion soup is the best Ive ever had. Ive tried many, and have spent a lot of time in France. Im not an expert, but I think I am a pretty good judge of quality food and ingredients. The staff is lovely and accommodating and I am actually going there in a little while for lunch, but as I was checking the hours to make sure they are open for lunch on Saturdays, I stumbled across the reviews...particularly Scotts, and felt the need to defend Debbies son. Scott, you need to know what you are talking about before you decide to tarnish someones reputation on the internet like that. It costs the restaurant money for each credit card transaction processed, so you using an extra credit card for your tip, which Im sure was generous, actually cost THEM money. Have you ever noticed that some places have a credit card minimum? Thats why. Also, you cannot simply charge only a tip on a credit card. You need an initial amount charged to the credit card before you are able to tip on it. This has nothing to do with Debbie, her son, or the way they do business. This has to do with you being ignorant and arrogant. Trust me, they dont need your extra little dollar, they are very successful and will continue to be. Having worked in the service industry for a number of years in the past, you are the kind of person who gives everyone a headache, and they probably would have preferred that you stayed at home counting your money that evening.
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Annamaria Pahi
I was afraid to write this review but honestly believe we were treated badly and were discriminated. I understand many ppl dont like little kids, but discriminating a family with two exceptionally behaved kids in a so-called kid-friendly cafe just doesnt seem right. They did not let us sit down to an empty table (there was no reserved sign on it) and also there was no wait to be seated sign anywhere either. I understand table go first comes first serve basis, but we havent seen anyone outside waiting for a table. Then, the waiter asked us loudly, in front of many other customers what we would like. We only wanted to have coffee and some dessert but have been told, it was Saturday and ppl come here for dinner and they dont have table for us. They humiliated us in front of the other guests and in front of our children. If we wouldve wanted dinner and/or would not have kids with us they could have "freed" a table for us inside?!? They suggested to call ahead. Like seriously. .. i have to call a cafe to reserve a table for a coffee?!? Thank God we chose not to make an offer for the house down the street....
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Michael Cohen
I grew up in HIghland Park have been eating the restaurants run by the Nieto family for years and they are all fantastic. Cafe Central is their classic and a little bit casual French cafe. The food is consistently outstanding and the waitstaff friendly. Tonight I had the french onion soup, roast chicken and apple tart for dessert. Tres magnifique. In the summer when the weather is nice, try to get a spot outdoors on the sidewalk. In the winter get French comfort food like ratatouille. Im not much of a drinker, but I am told by those who know that the wine list is excellent. I hear a lot of people say that dont like french food which is a shame because when its done right - and Cafe Central does it more than right, its the best cuisine there is. Bon appetit!
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Matt Barber
The food was good. I like options, but 3 menus to sort through was a bit confusing. I overheard an explanation of the menu to another group after we had ordered... it would have made more sense if I had heard it on the front end :) The head waiter fronted a pleasant demeanor, and worked very hard to take care of the group. It was difficult to get service while he ran around so much. He had 2 people assisting with delivering orders and drinks. Many of which were delivered to the wrong people. I would go back for sure, hoping it wont be too busy next time. If I have an identical experience, I would rate 3 stars.
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Tom Tojza
This place is great!!! We stopped in for a Saturday lunch and came out extremely satisfied. The food is fresh and choices were excellent. There were some unique food items on the menu also. Wait staff was very efficient and always there to serve. Adam is one great guy. He is so full of energy and upbeat that if you were in a terrible mood he could turn your day around just by talking with him. This is a person you want to be around. Give it a try, you wont be disappointed. Were headed back soon for a duck dinner.
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A Private User
Had dinner there last night with a friend - thank goodness I made reservations! Obviously a popular spot and for good reason. Had the French onion soup (DEElish) and the skirt steak which was so tender and flavorful, my mouth was in heaven.Atmosphere was energetic and yet cozy - not pretentious. Would have loved to sample the desserts but had a movie to catch! Im coming back, no question!
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A Private User
I think Debs son is lovely, I dont know what the gentleman below is talking about. We enjoy coming to the restaurant just to sit at the bar, chat with him, and have a good mojito. The fish of the day is usually spectacular. I highly recommend this intimate, cozy, casual restaurant.
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A Private User
where is deb? her son is not good for business would not go back ever again. spent over 200.00 and wanted to put a tip on another credit card and charge us 1.00 extra for this .wow you need a dollar that bad shame on you!! a total goniff
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Paul Davidson
Risotto was fantastic, as were the profiteroles. Coffee was outstanding. Service was top notch, personal without being pushy, yet highly professional.
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Sheryl Katz
Delicious food, attentive service and nice ambience. There are choices galore from the main menu, specials menu and tasting menu.
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David Crane
Kobe Burger is fantastic... Service fantastic... Desserts... Fantastic... All around Awesome.
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A Private User
A local favorite but always a bit too crowded, perhaps because it is a see-and-be-seen place.
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Alex Golod
Superb place for dinner, French bistro food refined. Personal and knowledgeable service
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Kathleen Weiss
Food is phenomenal as is the service! I love this cozy little storefront restaurant.
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Lucas Christian
Attentive service with excellent food. The 3-course menu option is a great deal.
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Shannan Summer
The atmosphere, the food, the presentation, the service, its all amazing!!!
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S A Molfed
Great service! Delicious food!! Tiramisu is to die for!!! Good job, Adam!
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A Private User
Its not my favorite but it is great place conveniently located in HP.
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Andrew Logan
My top choice for elegence in Highland Park. Great upscale food
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Arkady Khazin
Good food and service. Slightly awkward seating arrangements
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Scott Gordon
Excellent true French bistro in the heart of downtown HP.
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Richard Lepow
Best liver and onions Ive ever enjoyed! Bravo!
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Darrell Drake
Excellent menu, friendly owner
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Edward Franczek
Always a 5 star experience
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Rob Hoff
creative cuisine.
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Keith Betton
Loved it
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benasich catalin
Ok!
